Insurance Training & Learnerships in South Africa 2025 – Your Path to a Rewarding Career

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Introduction: Why Choose a Career in Insurance?

The insurance industry is one of South Africa’s most dynamic and high-earning career paths. From life insurance and short-term cover to financial planning and risk management, there is a constant need for skilled professionals who can help individuals and businesses protect their financial future.

A SETA-accredited insurance learnership or training programme offers the perfect starting point. It allows you to gain recognised qualifications, practical experience, and a foot in the door of a competitive but rewarding industry.

In 2025, insurance training opportunities are expanding through INSETA (Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority) and leading companies such as Old Mutual, Sanlam, Discovery, and Hollard.

1. What is Insurance Training?

Insurance training refers to structured programmes that provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the insurance sector.

It can take the form of:

  • Learnerships – Combining classroom learning with paid workplace experience.
  • Bursaries – Funding for full-time or part-time studies in insurance or finance.
  • Skills Programmes – Short, focused courses on specific topics such as compliance or underwriting.

2. Benefits of an Insurance Learnership

An insurance learnership offers:

  • Earn While You Learn – Monthly stipend during the programme.
  • Accredited Qualifications – Often leading to NQF Level 4 or higher.
  • Practical Industry Skills – Real-world experience in claims, underwriting, and client service.
  • Career Opportunities – Many learners are hired permanently after completion.
  • Regulatory Knowledge – Training on FAIS, FICA, and other compliance requirements.

3. Leading Insurance Companies Offering Learnerships in 2025

Old Mutual Insurance Learnerships

Focus: Financial planning, claims processing, and customer relations.
Requirements:

Sanlam Learnerships

Focus: Training financial advisors and short-term insurance consultants.
Requirements:

Hollard Insurance Learnerships

Focus: Short-term insurance, underwriting, and claims administration.
Requirements:

Discovery Insurance Learnerships

Focus: Health insurance, risk management, and customer service.
Requirements:

4. The Role of INSETA in Insurance Training

The Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority (INSETA) is responsible for skills development in the insurance sector.

INSETA supports candidates by:

  • Funding learnerships and internships.
  • Providing bursaries for unemployed youth and employed workers.
  • Partnering with accredited training providers.
  • Ensuring all qualifications meet national standards.

INSETA Bursary 2025: Covers tuition fees, learning materials, and sometimes living allowances.

5. Types of Careers in the Insurance Sector

Completing an insurance training programme can lead to roles such as:

  • Financial Advisor – Helping clients choose investment and insurance products.
  • Claims Administrator – Processing and assessing insurance claims.
  • Underwriter – Evaluating risk and approving policies.
  • Insurance Broker – Acting as an intermediary between clients and insurance providers.
  • Risk Manager – Identifying and mitigating potential losses for businesses.

6. Skills You’ll Gain

An insurance learnership equips you with:

  • Risk Assessment Skills – Understanding policy terms and conditions.
  • Regulatory Compliance Knowledge – FAIS, FICA, POPIA regulations.
  • Customer Service Excellence – Managing client relationships effectively.
  • Sales & Marketing Skills – Identifying client needs and offering solutions.
  • Technical Competence – Using insurance systems and platforms.

7. Entry Requirements for Insurance Learnerships

While requirements vary, most insurance training programmes require:

  • South African citizenship.
  • Age between 18 and 35.
  • Matric certificate (Mathematics, English, or Accounting advantageous).
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills.
  • A clear criminal and credit record.

8. How to Apply for Insurance Training in 2025

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Identify the Programme – Research available learnerships via company career pages and INSETA’s website.
  2. Prepare Your CV – Highlight customer service or sales experience.
  3. Write a Motivated Cover Letter – Explain your interest in the insurance industry.
  4. Submit Your Application – Follow each company’s online application process.
  5. Prepare for Interviews – Expect questions on teamwork, problem-solving, and client service.

9. Tips to Succeed in the Insurance Industry

  • Stay informed about industry changes and new products.
  • Build strong networking relationships.
  • Focus on continuous professional development through additional courses.
  • Be customer-centric and solution-driven.

10. Why Apply in 2025?

The South African insurance sector is adapting to digital transformation, new regulatory requirements, and changing consumer needs. This is creating more specialised and high-paying roles, particularly in financial planning, compliance, and risk management. Applying in 2025 positions you for growth in this evolving market.

Conclusion

Insurance training and learnerships in South Africa offer a gateway to a rewarding career in a stable and lucrative sector. With the support of INSETA and opportunities from major insurers, you can gain the skills, qualifications, and experience to succeed.

Whether your goal is to become a financial advisor, claims specialist, or underwriter, 2025 is the year to take the first step towards a secure and fulfilling future.

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